Standard EN455Medical Gloves for Single Use

This includes tests to assess the freedom from holes which is based on a penetration resistance test similar to that of EN374 Part 2, plus tests to assess the dimensions of the gloves and the mechanical strength of its materials, both before and after an ageing process. This European Standard covers the minimum properties that address certain essential requirements detailed in the Medical Device Directive 93/42/EEC.

EN455-1 Requirements and testing for freedom from holes

Gloves must pass this test in order to prove that they are an effective barrier against micro-organisms. A statistical sample taken from a batch of gloves is subject to checks for pinholes and leaks by filling with water. Gloves must achieve an acceptable quality levels (AQL) of 1.5 or better in order to be used as examination, procedure or surgical gloves.

EN455-2 Requirements and testing for physical properties

This standard includes tests for glove dimensions, and physical strength. Gloves are treated differently depending on the use they are intended for and the material they are manufactured from.

Surgical Gloves

Examination/Procedure Gloves made of Rubbers

Examination/Procedure Gloves made of Thermoplastics (e.g. Vinyl)

Force at Break Throughout Entire Shelf Life (Newtons)

9.0

6.0

3.6

EN455-3 Requirements and testing for biological evaluation

This standard includes tests for potentially hazardous materials that may affect the wearer or be transferred to a patient. These materials include:

Endotoxins: Toxic materials left behind by certain bacteria that can cause fever in humans

Latex Proteins: Because natural rubber latex is a natural product it contains proteins and enzymes that can cause a severe allergic reaction in genetically predisposed people

Chemical Residues: Most commonly, accelerators used in the manufacture of the product itself. These can cause allergic dermatitis in some genetically predisposed individuals

Powder: A powder free medical glove should have a powder level of 2mg per glove

EN455-4 Requirements and testing for shelf life determination

This standard requires a complicated network of tests to determine how long a glove will be fit for use when stored in warehouses or in end-user store rooms. All calculations based on this testing must be checked by comparison to samples aged in real-time as soon as those samples become available. The maximum shelf-life that can ever be claimed for medical gloves is five years from the date of manufacture.

Just Gloves are one of the UK's leading suppliers of disposable gloves. Our latex gloves,
vinyl gloves and nitrile gloves are suitable for home or the workplace with specialist gloves including
Hexarmour gloves, polythene gloves, safety gloves, sterile gloves and household rubber gloves. You can also
purchase other infection control products from us, including paper disposables, hand hygiene products, body
fluid disposal and disposable clothing.

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